Question

Which statement is correct about the following reaction?
$ZnO$ + $CO\to$ $Zn$ + $C{O}_2$

• A. ZnO is being oxidised
• B. CO is being reduced
• C. CO₂ is being oxidised
• D. ZnO is being reduced

Answer 1

The correct option is D

ZnO is being reduced

Substances that gain oxygen or lose hydrogen during a reaction are said to be oxidised whereas substances that gain hydrogen or lose oxygen are said to be reduced.
In the given reaction, ZnO gives away its oxygen to CO and forms Zn, hence ZnO is getting reduced. On the other hand, CO is gaining oxygen and forming CO₂, hence it is getting oxidised. Therefore the correct answer is (d).